The Dutch government has revealed a significant financial commitment of 110 million euros (approximately $127 million) aimed at the joint development and production of deep-strike drones in collaboration with Ukraine. This initiative falls under the broader “Build with Ukraine” program, which facilitates the establishment of defense production facilities by Ukrainian firms in NATO member states. This strategy not only seeks to enhance operational security from Russian aggressions but also aims to integrate Ukrainian defense capabilities with Western military industries more effectively.
As part of this program, Ukrainian company Fire Point is actively engaged in producing solid rocket fuel for its Flamingo long-range cruise missile in Denmark, demonstrating the transnational efforts to bolster Ukraine’s defense operations.
Ukrainian Minister of Defense Denys Shmyhal highlighted the agreement, stating that it marks a critical step in fortifying Ukraine’s defense, particularly in expanding drone production for frontline operations and urban defenses. He underscored the need for long-range capabilities and the importance of maintaining sanctions pressure on Russia.
Since the onset of Russia’s comprehensive invasion in 2022, the Netherlands has provided approximately $9 billion in various forms of assistance to Ukraine, including military supplies and drones. This latest investment, however, is noteworthy as it represents the first direct financial input from the Netherlands into the Ukrainian defense sector, aimed specifically at enhancing Ukraine’s military capabilities.
In addition to the drone production investment, Dutch Minister of Defense Ruben Brekelmans announced a supplementary aid package valued at 200 million euros ($232 million). This package is earmarked for counter-drone systems, further reinforcing Ukraine’s defenses against aerial threats.
Brekelmans also introduced a coordination cluster in Kyiv designed to assist Dutch defense technology firms looking to invest in Ukraine, signaling a strategic partnership between the two nations’ defense industries. He conveyed optimism about the potential for joint ventures in weapon production, though specific details on these collaborations are still forthcoming.
The Minister pointed out that these initiatives are structured to create mutually beneficial situations, leveraging Ukraine’s innovative defense capabilities and extensive military experience while utilizing the technological expertise and industrial capacity available in the Netherlands to scale production. This partnership is seen as a crucial step toward bolstering Ukraine’s defense capabilities amidst the ongoing conflict.
